A 1 Series Jaguar E-Type, beautifully transformed by Helm Motorcars.
Legend has it that Enzo Ferrari called the original Jaguar E-Type the most beautiful car ever built, but UK-based Helm Motorcars believes it can improve on this iconic design. On Wednesday, the company unveiled the first of 20 limited-edition rebuilt Series 1 E-Types, all of which feature modern technology and attention to detail.
According to the company's press release, Helm began with the original monocoque, which will be reinforced with steel while retaining at least 30% of the original materials. The new hood and doors are handcrafted from aluminum. According to Helm, up to 3,800 man-hours are spent on each car. [The Helm E-Type is powered by a rebuilt 3.8-liter inline 6-cylinder engine from the stock E-Type. This engine produces 300 hp and drives the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission; Helm has not released performance figures, but with an expected curb weight of 2,645 pounds, the inline-six should make this reborn classic quite fast.
Helm also adds modern features such as electrically assisted speed-sensitive power steering, adjustable dampers, upgraded brakes with six-piston front calipers, heated windshield, and soft-close doors. Insulation and sound insulation have also been added to the bodyshell.
The interior was enhanced by automotive designer Bill Amberg. The cockpit has been brought into the 21st century with LED interior lighting, Bluetooth, and a state-of-the-art air conditioning system. Each vehicle also comes with a matching weekender bag and briefcase and a billet copper key in a leather key ring.
Helm is not alone in reimagining the E-Type. Eagle has been doing it for over a decade with Speedster, Low Drag GT, Spyder GT, and Lightweight variants. Jaguar itself has also gotten in on the action, rebuilding two early E-Types to commemorate the model's 60th anniversary, building a continuation of the original lightweight E-Type race car, and even introducing an electric version.
Helm is selling a Series 1 Jaguar E-Type for approximately $576,000 based on current exchange rates. Those interested in purchasing this vehicle or learning more about it should visit the company's website.
